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IDEAL Networks has launched SignalTEKTM NT, a network transmission tester which costs up to 30% less than comparable equipment while still offering high quality reporting that proves the speed and reliability of a data cable and network installation. Uniquely, SignalTEK NT can be used with both copper and fibre cabling, reducing costs by removing the need to invest in more than one tester.

To further ensure that work can be completed productively and profitably, SignalTEK NT offers the functionality to produce performance reports at the end of a job, so that subsequent call backs can be charged for. In addition, the ability to transfer deliverables from the tester directly from the work site ensures job completion can be confirmed straight away to customers, reducing delays in payment. The ability to transfer data in real time using the free IDEAL AnyWARETM mobile app also ensures that test results are not lost, so no time or money is wasted on re-testing completed jobs. The app connects to the SignalTEK NT using Wi-Fi and transfers test reports to your mobile device. Once data is transferred, users can view the PDF reports and send them using their preferred file sharing method including email or file sharing app.

SignalTEK NT simulates actual network traffic to prove and document network and data cable performance to Gigabit Ethernet standards across various uses including VoIP, CCTV, Video, and web traffic. This is in contrast to some cable testers which do not transmit real Ethernet frames so do not effectively simulate network traffic. All tests conducted with SignalTEK NT comply with the IEEE 802.3ab Gigabit standard and can be performed on both shielded and unshielded twisted pair cables including Cat 5e through to Cat 8.

SignalTEK NT also uses Time Domain Reflectometry (TDR) to locate common wiring faults such as open and short circuits. Using the SignalTEK NT helps to eliminate common causes of network downtime and slow transmission speeds.

The tester offers a number of other useful time-saving functions to verify device, network and internet connectivity including port speed and duplex status, Power over Ethernet (PoE) and PoE+ availability, port ID with LLDP and Cisco discovery protocol, and tone generation for cable tracing using a compatible amplifier probe. The SignalTEK NT also verifies the power level of an optical device to identify the source of a problem as cabling or network hardware, making testing quicker, easier and less costly.

Easy and intuitive to use, the SignalTEK NT requires no calibration and comes with replaceable RJ-45 contacts which can help to reduce the cost of ownership of the tester. To further boost efficiency, when testing data cables or active networks, two handsets can automatically pair to allow tests to be initiated from either handset and then carried out by one person to save the time and cost of an additional technician.

Tim continues “With proof of performance becoming increasingly important to customers, installers and technicians can benefit from a tester that not only conducts a variety of tests accurately but also provides a selection of detailed reports in seconds – these can be shared with customers to demonstrate that the cabling or network is functioning as specified.”

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